Notice Contents
The Ukraine related activities of the Department of State (Department) are a top oversight priority for the Office of Inspector General (OIG). OIG has three objectives for this inspection: (1) to assess whether policy goals and objectives are being effectively achieved; (2) to determine whether resources are being used and managed with maximum efficiency, effectiveness, and economy; and (3) to determine whether internal management controls have been instituted to ensure quality of performance and reduce the likelihood of mismanagement.
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Mission Russia plays a key role in the ongoing crisis following Russia’s unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine. The Russian government prohibited the employment of resident foreign nationals in any capacity in October 2021. Coupled with difficulties obtaining visas for U.S. direct-hire staff, and against a backdrop of restrictions and harassment directed against embassy personnel, including expulsions, surveillance, travel limitations, and very limited official contact, the mission faces significant challenges in fulfilling its responsibilities. Nonetheless, despite a steady reduction in the number of diplomatic personnel, the embassy remains an important link to the Russian government.
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OIG has ongoing projects related to Ukraine and will be announcing additional projects in coming months. Visit OIG’s Ukraine Response Oversight page to follow our work in this area and contact us at [email protected] for additional information.